littlegirl08
06-25-2008, 06:03 PM
Like i said before I'm new here I'm very curious just wanted to ask a few questions:
-How old were you when you got diagonosed and/or your symptoms?
(I heard that people are usually diagnosed in their 30's)
-What is the best type of doctors to go to?
-What makes you feel better on a bad day?
-And does anyone else get extremely dizzy basically anytime they stand? I tell my mother that I feel like my head is in a cloud and at any moment i could just drop. It's so weird but I was just wondering if anyone experienced this and if so if you knew what made it better.
Thanks guys =]
-How old were you when you got diagonosed and/or your symptoms?
(I heard that people are usually diagnosed in their 30's)
-What is the best type of doctors to go to?
-What makes you feel better on a bad day?
-And does anyone else get extremely dizzy basically anytime they stand? I tell my mother that I feel like my head is in a cloud and at any moment i could just drop. It's so weird but I was just wondering if anyone experienced this and if so if you knew what made it better.
Thanks guys =]
Sponsor
TexMom85
06-25-2008, 11:39 PM
Hi LG, and welcome!
To answer your questions, for me personally, my FM symptoms began in my mid-30's (I'm now 50). The worst has been the sleep disturbances, since it has proven quite difficult to find the right combination to curb my chronic insomnia. Over the years, as I tried many medications and other treatments, I gained a good deal of weight and now have sleep apnea. I also have Restless Legs Syndrome, and due to disk problems in my back and neck, I suffer from chronic pain. I am pretty much a walking basket case.
In terms of doctors, I have been lucky to have recently found an internist who can handle all but the sleep apnea. (For that, I see a sleep/pulmonary specialist). My internist is the best at coordinating all of my medications and handling the side effects and interactions. She truly tries to understand what's going on in my entire body, not just a single part, which, IMO, has been helpful. I wonder, over the years, how much my specialists missed because they didn't talk to each other and perhaps caused one ailment to worsen because of the side effects of their treatment plans.
The dizziness, or "Fibro Fog" is not uncommon in us Fibro sufferers. I have it some days, but again, it depends a great deal on the quality of sleep I had the night before. Some medications can contribute to this feeling as well.
What makes me feel better? Sleep is the single-most important thing. Since I have difficulty in this area, it impacts me severely and often. Secondly, diet. I hate to say this, but for me, too much sugar makes me feel much worse. I try to avoid it but sometimes cannot resist. My internist has me trying an elimination diet and we have already discovered I have an intolerance to tomatoes and some other foods, which I never knew. My stomach and lower tract sure let me know if I decide to give in and eat pizza--I'll be miserable for hours.
On a really bad day, I use the heating pad or take a warm bath, try to relax, drink a lot of fluids and just rest--no laptop, no chores, just rest. I take my Vicodin if my pain is really bad, and I try to make sure I sleep as much as I can. I gave up my career about 5 years ago and now am on disability, so I don't have to worry about going to a job, which helps with my stress levels a great deal.
I am sorry you are suffering enough to have been led here, but you will find many voices of compassion, knowledge and empathy. I pray that you find a terrific doctor and have a great support system--these two things will make a huge difference in how you are able to cope with your illness.
Blessings,
TexMom
To answer your questions, for me personally, my FM symptoms began in my mid-30's (I'm now 50). The worst has been the sleep disturbances, since it has proven quite difficult to find the right combination to curb my chronic insomnia. Over the years, as I tried many medications and other treatments, I gained a good deal of weight and now have sleep apnea. I also have Restless Legs Syndrome, and due to disk problems in my back and neck, I suffer from chronic pain. I am pretty much a walking basket case.
In terms of doctors, I have been lucky to have recently found an internist who can handle all but the sleep apnea. (For that, I see a sleep/pulmonary specialist). My internist is the best at coordinating all of my medications and handling the side effects and interactions. She truly tries to understand what's going on in my entire body, not just a single part, which, IMO, has been helpful. I wonder, over the years, how much my specialists missed because they didn't talk to each other and perhaps caused one ailment to worsen because of the side effects of their treatment plans.
The dizziness, or "Fibro Fog" is not uncommon in us Fibro sufferers. I have it some days, but again, it depends a great deal on the quality of sleep I had the night before. Some medications can contribute to this feeling as well.
What makes me feel better? Sleep is the single-most important thing. Since I have difficulty in this area, it impacts me severely and often. Secondly, diet. I hate to say this, but for me, too much sugar makes me feel much worse. I try to avoid it but sometimes cannot resist. My internist has me trying an elimination diet and we have already discovered I have an intolerance to tomatoes and some other foods, which I never knew. My stomach and lower tract sure let me know if I decide to give in and eat pizza--I'll be miserable for hours.
On a really bad day, I use the heating pad or take a warm bath, try to relax, drink a lot of fluids and just rest--no laptop, no chores, just rest. I take my Vicodin if my pain is really bad, and I try to make sure I sleep as much as I can. I gave up my career about 5 years ago and now am on disability, so I don't have to worry about going to a job, which helps with my stress levels a great deal.
I am sorry you are suffering enough to have been led here, but you will find many voices of compassion, knowledge and empathy. I pray that you find a terrific doctor and have a great support system--these two things will make a huge difference in how you are able to cope with your illness.
Blessings,
TexMom
RigelBee
06-27-2008, 11:34 PM
Hello LG (and TexasMom),
LG - I am 52 yr/old who was just told this month that I have FM. I am not 100% sure myself that is an accurate diagnosis, but none-the-less I have been handed that diagnosis by a rheumy. I have had significant pain for a year. I have seen internists, rheumotologist, neurologist, physiatrist, physical therapists, chiroprator, etc.... Many, many tests have been run, with no positive results -- just a lot of things ruled OUT. I have had Hashimoto's for 25 years, so many doctors just shrug off the rising ANA titer. That concerns me because I have gone from 160 to 640 in the past few months. I cannot put those rising ANA titers with FM yet.
As far as doctors, I personally have decided that there is no "magic" specialist for FM. The secret for ME is to find ANY doctor that will listen and work with you because they will do whatever needs to be done to get answers. I have found my internist to be that doctor - I rely on him for my gyn, rheum, neurology, etc etc issues. He listens and cares.
I am keeping a daily journal to try and figure out what exactly this is that I am "having." I would advise you to keep a journal. It has helped me see that there can be triggers or things that guarantee a bad day is coming. Also, because of my age (and the fact that I am STILL PERIMENOPAUSAL :mad: ) I have begun to see a correlation between my monthly (irregular) cycle and my bad days.
I hope you find the answers you need. I wish you only GOOD days!
PS. Where in Texas are you TexasMom? I am moving to Texas next year....
LG - I am 52 yr/old who was just told this month that I have FM. I am not 100% sure myself that is an accurate diagnosis, but none-the-less I have been handed that diagnosis by a rheumy. I have had significant pain for a year. I have seen internists, rheumotologist, neurologist, physiatrist, physical therapists, chiroprator, etc.... Many, many tests have been run, with no positive results -- just a lot of things ruled OUT. I have had Hashimoto's for 25 years, so many doctors just shrug off the rising ANA titer. That concerns me because I have gone from 160 to 640 in the past few months. I cannot put those rising ANA titers with FM yet.
As far as doctors, I personally have decided that there is no "magic" specialist for FM. The secret for ME is to find ANY doctor that will listen and work with you because they will do whatever needs to be done to get answers. I have found my internist to be that doctor - I rely on him for my gyn, rheum, neurology, etc etc issues. He listens and cares.
I am keeping a daily journal to try and figure out what exactly this is that I am "having." I would advise you to keep a journal. It has helped me see that there can be triggers or things that guarantee a bad day is coming. Also, because of my age (and the fact that I am STILL PERIMENOPAUSAL :mad: ) I have begun to see a correlation between my monthly (irregular) cycle and my bad days.
I hope you find the answers you need. I wish you only GOOD days!
PS. Where in Texas are you TexasMom? I am moving to Texas next year....
mista0316
06-28-2008, 08:14 PM
Hello Littlegirl8,
Welcome!
I was told I have FM when I was 39. I am now 42.
I had an accident and broke my humerous bone and the bone went in my muscle. So, it caused many problems which came to FM.
It was my family dr that told me that it was fm. He did the exam and I was and still am 18/18. I am on a flare up right now. Have no idea how long it will last. My last flare up lasted a month!
What makes me feel better while going through these bad days is TV. I usually rent stand up comedy movies. Because I like to laugh and it does help. It takes me away from the pain even if it's for a couple of minutes.I usually buy my favorite Ice cream and eat that while I watch my videos. I also try to get as much rest as I can. It helps get me through my full day of bad pain.
As for the dizziness. I have that all the time. It sometimes gets so bad that I have to walk with a cane.
I wish you all releaf
M
Welcome!
I was told I have FM when I was 39. I am now 42.
I had an accident and broke my humerous bone and the bone went in my muscle. So, it caused many problems which came to FM.
It was my family dr that told me that it was fm. He did the exam and I was and still am 18/18. I am on a flare up right now. Have no idea how long it will last. My last flare up lasted a month!
What makes me feel better while going through these bad days is TV. I usually rent stand up comedy movies. Because I like to laugh and it does help. It takes me away from the pain even if it's for a couple of minutes.I usually buy my favorite Ice cream and eat that while I watch my videos. I also try to get as much rest as I can. It helps get me through my full day of bad pain.
As for the dizziness. I have that all the time. It sometimes gets so bad that I have to walk with a cane.
I wish you all releaf
M
TexMom85
06-29-2008, 02:52 AM
RigelBee---
I am in a suburb of Dallas for the time being, although there is a chance we may relocate, depending on hubby's job. Where might you move to? If it's here, I can certainly share some advice. San Antonio and Austin are also very nice (and much prettier than here), but more expensive in terms of real estate. At least our real estate isn't depreciating like some areas of the country.
I think a lot of us develop FM after being exposed to prolonged stress, whether it be from a job or physical injury, surgeries, etc. If you think you may have FM, examine your past for a history of prolonged illness, stress, injuries, etc. For some, it seems the body just begins to break down and the FM comes with the territory.
Wishing all FM sufferers relief....
Blessings,
Tex
PS Sorry about the peri-menopausal thing....I'm sure that's no fun. Had my stuff out several years back, don't know if it helped or not!
I am in a suburb of Dallas for the time being, although there is a chance we may relocate, depending on hubby's job. Where might you move to? If it's here, I can certainly share some advice. San Antonio and Austin are also very nice (and much prettier than here), but more expensive in terms of real estate. At least our real estate isn't depreciating like some areas of the country.
I think a lot of us develop FM after being exposed to prolonged stress, whether it be from a job or physical injury, surgeries, etc. If you think you may have FM, examine your past for a history of prolonged illness, stress, injuries, etc. For some, it seems the body just begins to break down and the FM comes with the territory.
Wishing all FM sufferers relief....
Blessings,
Tex
PS Sorry about the peri-menopausal thing....I'm sure that's no fun. Had my stuff out several years back, don't know if it helped or not!
RigelBee
07-03-2008, 12:57 AM
Hi TexMom
I am living in Honolulu at the moment, but we (husband and I) have a home in Texas (35 miles from Fort Worth) where we will most likely retire. I would love any information you can share with me. I am worried about finding good doctors. That is always a worry when you move.
Yes. I have to say that I have been under tremendous stress for the past 5 years. Stress Stress Stress.... I have become an anxious mess.
Although I have been told by a doctor (not my primary) that I have fibromyalgia, I am still in the "I am not sure that is what I have....." stage. I wish I knew something. The not-knowing is adding fuel to my stress fire.
Thank you for being part of this great board. I know many others have found support and peace-of-mind on here!
aloha!
I am living in Honolulu at the moment, but we (husband and I) have a home in Texas (35 miles from Fort Worth) where we will most likely retire. I would love any information you can share with me. I am worried about finding good doctors. That is always a worry when you move.
Yes. I have to say that I have been under tremendous stress for the past 5 years. Stress Stress Stress.... I have become an anxious mess.
Although I have been told by a doctor (not my primary) that I have fibromyalgia, I am still in the "I am not sure that is what I have....." stage. I wish I knew something. The not-knowing is adding fuel to my stress fire.
Thank you for being part of this great board. I know many others have found support and peace-of-mind on here!
aloha!
TexMom85
07-03-2008, 03:31 AM
RB,
I don't think the Moderators will allow any discussion on this board of anything other than specific health topics. And we're not allowed to post links to other web sites. However, I would be happy to offer you some info. Use your internet search engine for look for forums and city, and you will find boards similar to these in format, and you can look for info on any area in the country. I am a member there as well and can respond to your requests for the info on the area.
There are many excellent doctors in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I would recommend either an internist or a rheumotologist. I see a sleep doctor due to my sleep apnea, but the internist handles the FMS. Many FMS patients see Pain Management specialists (the Pain Management boards have excellent posts with a great deal of information) or even orthopedic surgeons.
Aloha....Hawaii is one place I have not been and would love to see. Texas ain't much in comparison....LOL
Hope to talk to you soon!
Blessings,
Tex
I don't think the Moderators will allow any discussion on this board of anything other than specific health topics. And we're not allowed to post links to other web sites. However, I would be happy to offer you some info. Use your internet search engine for look for forums and city, and you will find boards similar to these in format, and you can look for info on any area in the country. I am a member there as well and can respond to your requests for the info on the area.
There are many excellent doctors in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I would recommend either an internist or a rheumotologist. I see a sleep doctor due to my sleep apnea, but the internist handles the FMS. Many FMS patients see Pain Management specialists (the Pain Management boards have excellent posts with a great deal of information) or even orthopedic surgeons.
Aloha....Hawaii is one place I have not been and would love to see. Texas ain't much in comparison....LOL
Hope to talk to you soon!
Blessings,
Tex
sherryrenee0423
07-03-2008, 02:55 PM
TexMom I would be interested to know who your doctors are because I am also in the DFW area. My rheumy is at Big Baylor in Dallas.
TexMom85
07-04-2008, 01:03 PM
SherryRenee,
According to the board moderators, I must get permission from my doctors to post their info. I am seeing my internist on the 14th, and will ask her if it's okay. I can tell you she is located in Richardson, whether that is convenient to you or not. It's a bit of a drive for me, but she's definitely worth it.
I'll get back to you soon!
Blessings,
Tex
According to the board moderators, I must get permission from my doctors to post their info. I am seeing my internist on the 14th, and will ask her if it's okay. I can tell you she is located in Richardson, whether that is convenient to you or not. It's a bit of a drive for me, but she's definitely worth it.
I'll get back to you soon!
Blessings,
Tex
kirstee
07-04-2008, 04:11 PM
I was 52 YO when diagnosed, but had symptoms for most my life.
Most frequently, rheumy is the way to go. My FMS doctor is an endochrinologist, however.
Soaking in a tub in hot water with BaTherapy added.
Dizziness is a common complaint for FMS patients.
Blessings,
Kirstee
Most frequently, rheumy is the way to go. My FMS doctor is an endochrinologist, however.
Soaking in a tub in hot water with BaTherapy added.
Dizziness is a common complaint for FMS patients.
Blessings,
Kirstee
Twinkie50
07-05-2008, 11:08 AM
How old were you when you got diagonosed and/or your symptoms?
(I heard that people are usually diagnosed in their 30's)
I WAS 20 WHEN I FIRST STARTED WTH SYMPTOMS - I AM NOW 49
-What is the best type of doctors to go to? I WENT TO EVERY KIND OF DOCTOR IMAGINABLE AND THE ONE WHO HELPED ME THE MOST WAS A NEUROLOGIST -
-What makes you feel better on a bad day? MASSAGE THERAPY, DRINKING TONS OF WATER, RESTING OR SHORT NAP, MEDS, OR SOMETIMES JUST REALIZING ITS A BAD DAY AND PRAYING FOR TOMORROW TO BE BETTER!!
-And does anyone else get extremely dizzy basically anytime they stand? I GET HEAD RUSHES SOMETIMES WHEN I AM VERY FATIGUED - I WOULD NOT SAY IT IS A DIZZY FEELING - ITS VERY ODD
MARYANN
(I heard that people are usually diagnosed in their 30's)
I WAS 20 WHEN I FIRST STARTED WTH SYMPTOMS - I AM NOW 49
-What is the best type of doctors to go to? I WENT TO EVERY KIND OF DOCTOR IMAGINABLE AND THE ONE WHO HELPED ME THE MOST WAS A NEUROLOGIST -
-What makes you feel better on a bad day? MASSAGE THERAPY, DRINKING TONS OF WATER, RESTING OR SHORT NAP, MEDS, OR SOMETIMES JUST REALIZING ITS A BAD DAY AND PRAYING FOR TOMORROW TO BE BETTER!!
-And does anyone else get extremely dizzy basically anytime they stand? I GET HEAD RUSHES SOMETIMES WHEN I AM VERY FATIGUED - I WOULD NOT SAY IT IS A DIZZY FEELING - ITS VERY ODD
MARYANN
RigelBee
07-27-2008, 02:18 AM
TexMom,
Thank you for reminding me to not post names and information on here. I think sometimes I forget even the most basic things! I don't want to do anything to get in trouble .... I NEED this means of sharing concerns. It has become like a life-line for me.
Aloha!
Deb (RigelBee)
Thank you for reminding me to not post names and information on here. I think sometimes I forget even the most basic things! I don't want to do anything to get in trouble .... I NEED this means of sharing concerns. It has become like a life-line for me.
Aloha!
Deb (RigelBee)